From Lefkada: 7-Day Island Hopping Sailing Boat Cruise

Imagine spending a week on the water, cruising through some of Greece’s most stunning islands with gentle winds guiding your sail. For about $1,694 per person, you can join this 7-day island-hopping sailing adventure starting from Lefkada, exploring places like Kefalonia, Ithaca, Meganisi, and Kalamos. Led by friendly guides (your skipper, who’s usually an expert in local waters), this trip promises a mix of natural beauty, authentic villages, and delicious food—all from the comfort of a well-equipped sailboat.

What we love most? First, the chance to sail from island to island, feeling the breeze and enjoying the views without the hassle of driving or booking separate accommodations each night. Second, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear bays and discover marine life, which is a real highlight for those who love water-based adventures. The only thing to consider is that dinner isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for meals ashore or plan to cook onboard. This trip suits travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, authentic experiences, and are comfortable sharing a small group environment with a maximum of eight people.

Key Points

• Authentic Island Experience: Visit charming villages, beaches, and historic sites in the Ionian Islands.
• All-Inclusive Essentials: Breakfast, lunch, snorkeling gear, and linens are provided, offering good value.
• Flexible Dining Options: Dinner is at your expense, but local restaurant recommendations and onboard cooking are available.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and camaraderie.
• Ideal for Water Lovers: Snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing in secluded bays are central to this experience.
• Great for Relaxed Travelers: Emphasis on scenic sailing, local culture, and authentic cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the 7-Day Itinerary

Starting Point: Lefkada

Your adventure begins at Lefkas Marina, a lively hub that’s easy to reach and perfect for getting on your boat. Your crew will introduce themselves, set expectations, and go over safety measures—important since you’ll be spending a week on the water. The boat itself is a comfortable vessel, designed to offer a smooth ride and plenty of space for relaxing, eating, or socializing.

Day 1: Exploring Kefalonia

Your first stop after setting sail is Kefalonia, Greece’s largest Ionian island. Known for its lush greenery and dramatic coastline, Kefalonia offers stunning views and charming villages. You might find yourself wandering through Argostoli’s lively streets or relaxing on beaches like Makris Gialos. Many guests comment on the “beautiful scenery” and “crystal-clear waters” that make swimming here a treat. The day typically includes a chance to snorkel and enjoy a leisurely lunch onboard, soaking in the island’s relaxed vibe.

Day 2 & 3: Ithaca and Kalamos

Next, you’ll hop over to Ithaca, famed for its mythic ties to Odysseus. Expect to explore Vathi, the island’s main port, with its narrow streets and waterfront tavernas. It’s a perfect spot for a stroll and sampling fresh seafood. The crew often recommends visiting local wineries or enjoying the panoramic views from the hills.

Kalamos, a quieter, less touristy island, offers serene beaches and rugged landscapes. Guests often remark on the peacefulness and unspoiled natural beauty. You may anchor near Mikros Gialos or Sivota Bay, where calm waters invite swimming and snorkeling among colorful fish. Many reviews mention how refreshing it is to unwind in these tranquil settings.

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Day 4 & 5: Meganisi and Spartachori

Sailing further, you’ll visit Meganisi—an island loved for its quaint villages and hidden coves. Vathi, the main village, has cozy tavernas and friendly locals. The scenery here is lush and inviting, perfect for a relaxed lunch ashore or a swim in quiet bays.

Spartachori, on the mainland near Lefkada, often features in the itinerary as a charming town with traditional architecture and stunning coastal views. Guests enjoy wandering through its narrow streets and sampling local specialties. The mixture of land and sea here provides memorable photo opportunities and authentic Greek charm.

Day 6 & 7: Mikros Gialos, Sivota Village Bays, and Return to Lefkada

Your final days are spent exploring the picturesque bays of Mikros Gialos and Sivota, known for their clear waters and lovely beaches. Many guests treasure snorkeling in these sheltered coves, discovering a vibrant underwater world.

On the last day, you’ll return to Lefkada, sailing along rugged coastlines and enjoying your final hours on deck. The journey concludes back at the marina, with plenty of new stories and photos to share.

What Makes This Experience Special

Natural Beauty and Tranquility: Each island and bay presents a different scene—craggy cliffs, lush hillsides, secluded beaches. The Ionian Sea’s calm waters and predictable winds make for an enjoyable sailing experience, even for beginners.

Authentic Local Flavor: From sampling Greek dishes recommended by your skipper to strolling through traditional villages, you’ll get a taste of everyday island life. Many travelers find these moments more memorable than touristy attractions.

Water Activities: The snorkeling gear provided means you can explore under the surface, often discovering colorful marine life and interesting rock formations. Guests frequently comment on how clear and inviting the water is.

Small Group Setting: With just up to 8 participants, the tour offers a friendly, intimate atmosphere. It’s ideal for connecting with fellow travelers and having personalized attention from your crew.

Considerations for Your Trip

While this tour offers many highlights, a couple of points are worth noting. First, since dinner isn’t included, you’ll want to plan ahead—either enjoying meals ashore at recommended tavernas or preparing simple dishes onboard. Budgeting around 50 Euro per person should cover enough food for the week, according to reviews.

Second, the tour isn’t suited for wheelchair users or unaccompanied minors, so it’s best for travelers who are comfortable with small boat travel and physical mobility. Also, packing light is advisable—oversize luggage is discouraged, and you’ll want to keep your belongings manageable onboard.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This sailing adventure appeals most to those looking for a relaxed, authentic Greek experience away from tourist crowds. Water lovers will relish the snorkeling and swimming opportunities, while those curious about local culture will appreciate wandering through villages and sampling regional cuisine. It’s ideal for small groups or couples seeking a mix of adventure, tranquility, and genuine hospitality.

If you’re comfortable sharing a boat with others and eager to explore Greece’s beautiful islands from the water, this tour offers a wonderful balance of scenic sailing, cultural discovery, and authentic moments.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day island-hopping sailing tour from Lefkada offers a compelling way to see the Ionian Islands beyond the usual tourist trails. With its focus on natural beauty, local charm, and water-based adventures, it provides a genuine taste of Greece’s coastal life. The inclusion of breakfast and lunch, snorkeling gear, and a small-group setting make it good value for those wanting a balanced mix of structured activity and leisure.

While not a luxury cruise, it’s a practical and heartfelt way to explore some of Greece’s most beloved islands, especially if you enjoy being on the water, exploring by foot, and soaking up the sun. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a memorable escape, this tour can be a highlight of your Greek travels.

FAQ

How many people are on this tour?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, making for a small, friendly group where everyone gets personal attention.

What’s included in the price?
Breakfast and lunch onboard are included, along with linens, snorkeling equipment, and safety gear. Dinner is not included, so you’ll need to plan for meals ashore or onboard.

Can I bring my luggage?
Oversize luggage is not allowed—packing light is best since space is limited onboard.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t recommended for unaccompanied minors, and the small boat setting may not suit very young children.

What should I budget for dinners?
Guests suggest around 50 Euro per person should be enough to enjoy dinners ashore at local tavernas or to stock up for onboard cooking.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This sailing tour offers a wonderful way to experience Greece’s Ionian Islands—combining scenic sailing, culture, and water fun, all in a small-group setting. If you value authentic, relaxed travel and love the sea, this trip deserves a spot on your bucket list.

You can check availability for your dates here: